Concern Over Toddler's Abnormal Blood Results While Pediatrician is Away
I have a nearly 3-year-old daughter who has been experiencing health issues. She’s been diagnosed with eczema and has allergies that we suspect are seasonal in nature, although we're currently awaiting the results from a blood test for further clarification. To manage her eczema and allergies, she has been prescribed various topical steroids alongside children's Zyrtec. Her symptoms include: - Severe itching - Swollen eyes - Disrupted sleep, waking frequently to scratch - Skin rashes The rashes associated with her eczema are widespread, primarily affecting her hands, inner elbows, the backs of her legs, cheeks, and the upper back/lower neck area. While these are the most visible sites, she’s scratching all over, leading to multiple marks and scratches. A couple of weeks back, we visited a dermatologist for the first time due to the severity of her eczema. The dermatologist recommended a bi-monthly injection treatment, but before proceeding, my daughter is required to complete a course of topical steroids to assess any improvement. Additionally, the dermatologist ordered a Quantiferon Gold test to verify her eligibility for the injection regimen. This is a standard procedure to evaluate her kidney and liver function beforehand. Since the dermatologist doesn't fall under our pediatric network, she will be forwarding the laboratory results for review during our next appointment in July, although I’m uncertain if she will provide feedback sooner. I reached out to the pediatric office to request that my daughter’s pediatrician examine the blood results and, if necessary, schedule a consultation. However, I learned from his nurse that he is out of the office for a few days. I thrive on information, so I would appreciate any insights into how to interpret these abnormal results. I am seeking reassurance on whether my concerns are unwarranted or if I should brace myself for more significant issues ahead. Below, I will summarize only the abnormal results, as the remainder were within normal limits: **CBC:** - Hemoglobin (Hgb): 11.4 (low) - Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH): 24.8 (low) - Absolute Eosinophils: 0.63 (high) **Metabolic Panel:** - Glucose: 58 (low) **Hepatic Function:** - SGOT/AST: 46 (high) - Protein: 7.5 (high) **Lipid Panel:** - Triglycerides: 142 (high)
Answers (1)
6/26/2025, 4:30:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your daughter's health, especially with the ongoing challenges of eczema and the abnormal blood test results you've described. I appreciate your desire for reassurance and clarity regarding these findings.
Summary of Key Points:
- Blood Test Abnormalities: Your daughter's test results indicate low hemoglobin, low glucose, elevated eosinophils, and abnormal liver function tests.
- Common Impacts: Abnormal results can be related to various factors, including nutritional status, allergies, infections, or liver enzyme changes, particularly concerning her eczema and allergy symptoms.
- Immediate Actions: Focus on managing her symptoms and closely monitoring her health while waiting for professional guidance.
Explanation of Abnormal Results:
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Low Hemoglobin (11.4): This can indicate anemia, which may cause fatigue and is commonly related to dietary deficiencies or chronic conditions. Children can develop anemia due to insufficient iron or other nutrients.
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Elevated Eosinophils (0.63): High eosinophil levels can often be associated with allergies, asthma, and skin conditions like eczema, suggesting her body is reacting to allergens.
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Low Glucose (58): This could indicate low blood sugar levels, which may affect her energy levels and how she feels. Ensure she is eating regular, balanced meals.
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High Liver Enzymes (AST 46 and Protein 7.5): Elevated liver enzymes can indicate inflammation or liver issues. It could also be a transient condition related to infections or other common pediatric health issues.
Next Steps:
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Manage Symptoms: Continue using the prescribed treatments like topical steroids and Zyrtec to help alleviate her eczema and allergy symptoms. Ensure she has a well-balanced diet rich in iron and other essential nutrients (like leafy greens, lean meats, and whole grains).
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on her overall health and energy levels. If she becomes increasingly fatigued, has difficulty waking up, or shows any other concerning behavioral changes, these would require more immediate attention.
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Follow Up with Pediatrician: Since your pediatrician is currently unavailable, explore if you can receive a consultation with another pediatrician in the practice to discuss the blood results more urgently. Document your concerns and symptoms for clarity.
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Consider Dietary Changes: To improve her hemoglobin levels, focus on iron-rich foods (like eggs, beans, and fortified cereals). If you have concerns about her diet, consult with a nutritionist if possible.
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Stay Informed and Patient: As you await the results of the Quantiferon Gold test and the follow-up from your pediatrician, keep track of any changes in her symptoms and remain proactive about her care.
It's completely natural to feel anxious in these situations. You're doing a great job monitoring her health and seeking information. Please feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification about any specific concerns.
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